Real Madrid have started applying pressure in a bid to convince Liverpool to sell before the February 3 deadline.
Real Madrid are keen to secure Trent Alexander-Arnold, 26, in the winter transfer window, but they are determined to keep spending under control. Despite informal contact between them and Liverpool, the Spanish club's initial offer of around $10 million failed to resonate at Anfield. According to The Daily Telegraph, Liverpool have set a valuation closer to $25 million, a price Madrid are reluctant to meet.
Madrid's Trent approach: patience and influence
Real Madrid sees Alexander-Arnold as a valuable addition to strengthen the squad for a tough season, but not as an urgent need. Their strategy is to increase their offer to around €15 million, but they are willing to wait until the summer if Liverpool do not accept a deal closer to their terms.
The club counts on their strong negotiating position:
Madrid will hope that as the February 3 transfer deadline approaches, Liverpool will feel more pressure to avoid losing Alexander-Arnold for free this summer.
Impact of the Champions League
Even if Madrid sign Alexander-Arnold this winter, UEFA regulations (Articles 30-32) would prevent him from playing in the current Champions League group stage. This means he would miss key January games against Salzburg (January 22) and Brest (January 29), giving Madrid some flexibility to delay the transfer.
In the meantime, Lucas Vázquez, as well as backup options like Fede Valverde and Asensio (recently tested in defensive roles), provide ample cover. Madrid are confident they can avoid a “panic buying” scenario.
Liverpool under pressure
The Alexander-Arnold situation is becoming a hot topic at Anfield. The player's every report, gesture or action is scrutinized and reflects the uncertainty surrounding his future. News of Madrid's first bid, reported by The Times, has added to the excitement of what has been a smooth season under Arne Slot in both domestic and European competitions.
The situation is in stark contrast to the optimism sparked by Alexander-Arnold's recent celebration after scoring against West Ham. His 'hand-to-ear' gesture, interpreted as dismissing media speculation, offered hope to Liverpool fans but also showed the polarizing style of celebrating his goals, which often sparked debate.
Perfect fit for Madrid
Real Madrid sees Alexander-Arnold as an ideal addition both tactically and strategically:
Furthermore, Carlo and Davide Ancelotti's experience with British players during their spells at Chelsea and Everton adds a new layer of confidence to the potential move.
For Madrid, the arrival of Alexander-Arnold this winter would clearly be a valuable asset, but the club is determined to avoid overspending. While they may increase their offer slightly, they are content to wait until the summer if Liverpool stick to their valuation. Trent's possible move to Madrid seems inevitable, whether it happens now or at the end of the season. But nothing is guaranteed yet…
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